Meaning and Usage
"成群结队" is a descriptive phrase used to depict people or animals moving or gathering in groups or flocks. It emphasizes the collective nature of the movement, often implying a large number or a close-knit group.
Common Contexts
This phrase is frequently used in everyday life to describe crowds, such as children leaving school, tourists visiting places, or animals migrating. It conveys a vivid image of many individuals acting together.
Collocations and Patterns
- 成群结队地 + verb (e.g., 走, 飞, 参观): describes the manner of moving or acting in groups.
- Often used with animals (鸟儿, 羊群) or people (孩子们, 游客们).
Nuances
Using "成群结队" highlights the visual impression of a group moving as one, often suggesting organization or natural gathering rather than random individuals. It is neutral in tone and suitable for both spoken and written Chinese.
Common Confusion
Do not confuse "成群结队" with simply "很多人" (many people). The phrase specifically stresses the group formation and collective movement, not just quantity.